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Months away, Sterlingfest gets preview

It’s still months away, but organizers of the annual Sterlingfest Art & Music Fair are already finding plenty to celebrate.

Sterlingfest will make its 2013 run July 25-27 at Sterling Heights’ City Center campus.

Sterling Heights Community Relations Steve Guitar gave details of a sneak peek at the festival, the 33rd year that Sterling Heights has hosted the event. A typical year draws more than 100,000 people from the metro Detroit area to enjoy a secure environment filled with fun for all ages.

“It’s a celebration of the performing, cultural and culinary arts in Sterling Heights,” Guitar said. “I think this is a festival where you can bring every member of your family and have something to offer.”

Guitar said children can pass the time watching a kids entertainment stage, while a carnival midway with numerous rides will appeal to families and older children. Adults can enjoy the jazz court and evening concerts, and a Suds ‘n’ Sounds beer tent.

Mike Crimmins, Sterling Heights’ broadcast services manager, said the festival fills its four stages with entertainment acts that should please any music fan. At least 20 bands specializing in pop, rock, jazz and blues will take to their instruments, including some opening acts with Sterling Heights roots.

Crimmins said tribute acts to The Rolling Stones, Van Halen and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers will headline each night of the festival.

“All three are professional, traveling, touring tribute acts,” he said. “They aren’t just four guys from a garage who make Tom Petty songs.”

An arts and crafts show will set up shop and sell the choice handiwork of local artists, such as paintings, photos, sculptures and more.

Festival guests won’t have to look far to grab a bite to eat. In addition to street food vendors, 12 local restaurants are expected to participate in the Sterlingfest Restaurant Row, serving American grill fare, seafood, pierogies and hummus.

“It’s a little bit of everything for everybody,” Guitar said.

The 2013 Sterlingfest Art & Music Fair will take place July 25-27 at Sterling Heights’ City Center campus, 40555 Utica Road. Festival hours are 10 a.m.-11 p.m.